Colac Otway Shire Mayor, Councillor Lyn Russell will represent South West Victoria on a state wide body that seeks to build capacity for rural Victorian municipalities.
Cr Russell, who was voted in to represent the region in December, said she was excited to be part of Rural Councils Victoria (RCV).
“It’s a real honour to be part of this, and I’ll certainly be highlighting the issues we face in this region, and lobbying for change.”
Rural Councils Victoria is a group of 38 rural councils, representing 79 percent of the state.
The RCV network acts as a liaison between rural councils and the Victorian and Commonwealth governments, industry and community groups, and regional advisory bodies and planning committees.
“I’m thrilled to be able to represent the issues of not just Colac Otway, but our five neighbouring shires as well,” said Cr Russell.
“We represent a really significant part of our state – we have some of the most important geographical and natural icons in our region, which need to be cared for. We also have thriving economies, which we need to do our best to continue the momentum with.
“One of the issues I’ll be pushing hard on is the state of rural roads and the current funding models for those.
“We want sustainable councils, and alternative funding available to cover superannuation shortfalls. These are all issues I’ll be providing leadership on,” Cr Russell said.
For more information on Rural Councils Victoria go to: www.ruralcouncilsvictoria.org.au
